Defending WAFCON champions South Africa held to draw by 10-player Tanzania

According to reports from Honneur Stadium in Oujda, defending Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) champions South Africa were held to a 1-1 draw by Tanzania, who finished the match with 10 players.

In the earlier group match, Mali also drew 1-1 with Ghana — with Alice Kusi’s sixth-minute opener being cancelled out by Aïssata Traoré in the 52nd minute.

Opah Clement put Tanzania ahead in the 24th minute with a precise header from Ester Maseke Marwa’s free-kick delivery. Bambanani Mbane equalized for South Africa from a corner situation provided by Lebohang Ramalepe.

The situation changed when Winfrida Gerald received a red card in the 83rd minute for a reckless challenge on Linda Motlhalo — a decision made after VAR review.

South Africa remains top of Group C on goal difference above Mali, but needs at least a point in their final match against Mali to secure qualification for the quarter-finals.